Instant Pot Taco Pasta

If you love the bold flavors of taco night but are craving something cozy and comforting, this Instant Pot Taco Pasta is your new go-to dinner. It’s a delightful marriage of savory seasoned beef, zesty diced tomatoes and chilies, and creamy cheese all tossed with tender penne pasta. The best part? It all comes together in your Instant Pot in under 30 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight meal that’s both quick and satisfying.

This dish is a beautiful one-pot wonder that combines the heartiness of a taco dinner with the ease and comfort of pasta — perfect for busy families, weeknight cooks, or anyone who loves a flavorful twist on classic pasta dishes. Plus, it’s so versatile you can easily customize it to your taste or what you have on hand.

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe shines because it balances convenience, flavor, and texture all in one pot. Cooking the pasta directly in the Instant Pot with the beef and flavorful liquids allows the noodles to soak up all those delicious taco spices and Rotel tomatoes, resulting in every bite bursting with flavor. The addition of the salsa con queso creates a creamy, cheesy finish that takes this dish from simple to irresistible.

Using all pantry-friendly ingredients, you can have this comforting meal on the table fast without compromising on taste or texture. It’s also incredibly flexible — you can swap proteins or adjust the spice level easily, making it a crowd-pleaser for all ages. And because it’s made in one pot, cleanup is a breeze!

What We’re Using

Lean ground beef (1 lb): Provides a hearty, protein-packed base with rich flavor.
Taco seasoning (1-oz package): Brings in that classic taco spice blend — cumin, chili powder, garlic, and more.
Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies (10-oz can): Adds a zesty, slightly spicy tomato punch that livens up the dish.
All-purpose flour (2 Tbsp): Helps thicken the sauce for that perfect creamy consistency.
Beef broth (4 cups): The cooking liquid that infuses the pasta and beef with rich flavor.
Penne pasta (16-oz box): A sturdy pasta shape that holds sauce well and cooks beautifully in the Instant Pot.
Salsa con queso (15-oz jar): Adds creamy, cheesy goodness with a hint of spice.
Shredded Mexican cheese blend (1 cup): Melts perfectly for an extra cheesy finish.
Salt and pepper: To taste, to enhance all the flavors.

Before You Start: Equipment

Instant Pot or electric pressure cooker: Essential for quick, hands-off cooking.
Spoon or spatula: For stirring and scraping the bottom of the pot.
Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure accurate ingredient amounts.
Colander or strainer (optional): If you want to rinse the pasta before cooking, though it’s not necessary here.

The Method for Instant Pot Taco Pasta

Step 1: Sauté the Beef

Turn your Instant Pot to the sauté setting and add the lean ground beef. Cook it until browned and no longer pink, breaking it apart with your spatula. Once fully cooked, drain any excess fat if needed to keep the dish lighter.

Step 2: Season and Add Flour

Sprinkle in the taco seasoning and stir it into the beef, allowing the spices to toast slightly and become fragrant. Then sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the mixture and stir well — this helps thicken the sauce later.

Step 3: Add Liquids and Pasta

Pour in the beef broth along with the entire can of Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies. Stir everything together to combine. Next, add the penne pasta, pressing it gently into the liquid to ensure it’s mostly submerged. Do not stir after this step to avoid the “burn” warning on the Instant Pot.

Step 4: Pressure Cook

Seal the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to sealing. Cook on high pressure for 5 minutes. Once the timer beeps, allow a natural release for 5 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure.

Step 5: Stir in Cheese and Salsa con Queso

Open the lid and give everything a good stir. Add the jar of salsa con queso and the shredded Mexican cheese blend. Stir until the cheese melts smoothly into the sauce, creating a rich and creamy finish. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Scoop the taco pasta into bowls and garnish as desired. Fresh cilantro, sliced avocado, or a dollop of sour cream all make fantastic toppings. This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or some Chicken Fajita Rice Skillet if you want to keep the Tex-Mex theme going.

Fresh Seasonal Changes

Add diced fresh bell peppers or zucchini for extra veggies and crunch.
Top with fresh chopped tomatoes or sliced green onions for brightness.
Swap in fresh corn kernels for a touch of sweetness and texture.
Mix in fresh jalapeño slices if you want more heat.
In cooler months, stir in some roasted butternut squash or pumpkin puree for subtle sweetness and creaminess.

Pro Tips & Notes

Don’t overcook the pasta: The 5-minute pressure cook time is perfect for al dente penne. Overcooking can make it mushy.
Use lean beef: Helps keep the dish lighter and prevents excess grease.
Feel free to substitute: Ground turkey or chicken work great if you want a lighter protein alternative.
Adjust spice level: If you prefer milder, use mild salsa con queso and less taco seasoning.
For thicker sauce: If needed, after cooking, switch back to sauté and simmer a few minutes to reduce liquid.
To make it vegetarian: Omit the beef and add black beans or cooked lentils.

Storing, Freezing & Reheating

This Instant Pot Taco Pasta stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When ready to enjoy again, reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if it seems too thick. You can also freeze leftovers for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While penne works great for this recipe, you can use other short pasta shapes like rotini, rigatoni, or shells. Just keep in mind the cooking time might vary slightly depending on the pasta type.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Simply substitute the salsa con queso and shredded cheese with your favorite dairy-free cheese alternatives or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can brown the beef and assemble everything in the Instant Pot insert, then refrigerate before cooking. When ready, just set your Instant Pot and cook as directed. You can also reheat leftovers easily.

How spicy is this dish?

The heat level is moderate thanks to the Rotel tomatoes and salsa con queso. If you prefer less spice, opt for mild salsa con queso and reduce the taco seasoning to half. For more heat, add fresh jalapeños or hot sauce to taste.

What to Make After This

Try the Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet for another comforting beef and pasta combo.
Whip up a batch of Chicken Fajita Rice Skillet for a flavorful, one-pan dinner with a Tex-Mex twist.
Make a fresh guacamole and chips to enjoy alongside your taco pasta.
Serve with a simple roasted vegetable medley for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

This Instant Pot Taco Pasta is a fantastic example of how a few simple ingredients can come together to create a flavor-packed and comforting meal in no time. It’s perfect for busy nights when you want a satisfying dinner without a ton of fuss, yet still crave bold, vibrant flavors. The creamy cheese and zesty taco seasoning make it a hit for all ages, and the flexibility to customize with fresh veggies or different proteins means you can keep it fresh and exciting every time you make it.

Whether you’re new to the Instant Pot or a seasoned pro, this recipe is a must-try that combines convenience, taste, and texture effortlessly. So grab your Instant Pot and get ready for a new family favorite that’s sure to become a staple in your weeknight dinner rotation.

Give this recipe a try and enjoy the best of taco night and pasta comfort all in one bowl!